Tomatoes are worth their weight in gold, wages are stagnant, and now, the government wants more from workers’ already shrinking paychecks?

This was the statement of Akbayan Partylist Representative Perci Cendaña as he joined labor groups at the Social Security System (SSS) headquarters today to protest the government’s decision to increase SSS contributions, demanding that addressing the soaring cost of basic goods and raising wages take precedence.

“The government needs to get its priorities straight. Ibaba muna nila ang presyo ng kamatis at itaas ang sahod ng manggagawa bago tayo mag-usap tungkol sa SSS contribution hike,” said Cendaña, referring to the planned increase in SSS premiums from 14% to 15% under Republic Act No. 11999, which took effect on January 1, 2025.

It was reported that tomato prices in the National Capital Region (NCR) now range from ₱200 to ₱350 per kilogram, a sharp increase from ₱40 to ₱100 per kilogram in early 2024. This was supported by a report that annual inflation reached 2.9% in December 2024, driven by increasing food and utility costs, and a December 2024 survey that revealed that 63% of Filipino families consider themselves poor, the highest rate since 2003.

“Workers are already struggling with low wages, high prices, and increasing poverty. Adding an extra deduction to their already meager salaries is not just inconsiderate—it’s cruel,” Cendaña said.

To demonstrate public sentiment, Akbayan installed a sticker wall outside the SSS office, allowing citizens to voice their opinions on the contribution hike. “Since there have been no public consultations on this issue, kami na ang gagawa nito para sa gobyerno. The people will make it clear—they want higher wages and lower food prices, not higher contributions,” Cendaña added.

Akbayan reiterated its call for the government to focus on policies that directly improve the lives of workers, such as raising the minimum wage and lowering the prices of basic commodities, before imposing additional burdens.